Golden Tate wants nothing more than to remain in Seattle. The wide receiver was a big member of the team this season as he proved to be a reliable playmaker in the absence of Percy Harvin. However, Harvin's return to the Seahawks complicates Tate's status as he enters free agency. While he continues to express his desire to return, the Seahawks might have a different opinion.
Tate admits he has not heard much from the Seahawks since the season ended. The team has been in constant contact with other free agents like defensive end Michael Bennett, trying to work out a new deal before free agency begins in less than a week, but there has been silence towards Tate.
"Right now it's been pretty chill. I haven't heard too much." Tate said, via Alex Marvez and Bill Polian on Sirius XM NFL Radio. "I've kind of just trusted in my agent and him being good at his work. Todd (France) has had some great deals in the past and so I'm letting him handle it. Just trying to stay stress free and really enjoying being a Super Bowl champ."
It is very clear that Bennett is the priority. After the defensive star, extensions to players like Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman could come next. The Seahawks have already released Red Bryant and Sidney Rice to free up space, but have not contacted Tate about his contract demands. The wide receiver has said he would be willing to take a discount to remain with the team, leaving many to wonder why he has yet to be called.
"I did the tough part, and that's performing on the field," Tate said, via the Seattle Times. "And hopefully, I can call Seattle home for a few more years. But we'll see. I know that coach (Pete) Carroll has expressed that he would like to have me on the team, and I have expressed that I would like to stay on this team because I see this team winning for a long time. But we will see. Only time will tell.''
If Tate hits the free agent market, plenty of teams will be interested in giving him money. The wide receiver can expect a contract similar to what Riley Cooper signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. Cooper signed a five-year, $25 million deal which sets the market for receivers who are not a No. 1 prospect. Tate caught 64 passes for 898 yards which was a career-high.
If Tate is not back in Seattle, teams like the New York Jets or the New England Patriots could be interested in bringing him on. The Giants could also be an option if they can get Tate to agree to the right price.
